Top 10 countries with largest manufacturing companies in Africa 2025
The Nation
Nigeria has cemented its status as one of Africa’s top industrial powerhouses, earning the 3rd spot on the list of the continent’s leading manufacturing countries, according to a recent report by The African Exponent—a trusted analytical platform for business insights and investment trends in Africa.
While Nigeria leads in West Africa, other nations across the continent are also making notable strides in industrial development. From South Africa’s advanced automotive industry to Morocco’s booming aerospace sector, Africa’s manufacturing potential is being realized in different corners of the continent.
Here are 10 Countries with Largest Manufacturing Companies in Africa 2025
1. South Africa
South Africa tops the list as Africa’s most industrialised nation. Its advanced infrastructure, diversified industrial base, and global partnerships—particularly in the automotive and chemical sectors—make it the continent’s undisputed manufacturing leader. Major sectors include Automotive, Steel, Chemicals, and Food Processing, with top players like Sasol, ArcelorMittal South Africa, Sappi, Tiger Brands, and Volkswagen SA.
2. Egypt
Egypt’s manufacturing ecosystem thrives on exports to Europe and the Middle East. It has built a strong presence in Cement, Textiles, Pharmaceuticals, and Petrochemicals. Key players include Elsewedy Electric, Arabian Cement Company, Cleopatra Group, and EIPICO, with ongoing industrial reforms boosting global competitiveness.
3. Nigeria
Nigeria is home to some of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates. The Dangote Refinery, BUA’s cement expansion, and a surge in local food and beverage manufacturing are reshaping the nation’s industrial profile. Its core manufacturing sectors include Cement, Consumer Goods, Oil Refining, and Food & Beverages—spearheaded by industry leaders like Dangote Group, BUA Group, Nestlé Nigeria, and Unilever Nigeria.
4. Morocco
As a North African manufacturing hub, Morocco is attracting foreign direct investment in high-tech sectors like aerospace and automotive. With strong EU trade links, the country excels in Automotive, Aerospace, Textiles, and Electronics. Key players include Renault Morocco, PSA Group, Bombardier Morocco, and Managem Group.
5. Kenya
Kenya’s manufacturing strength lies in Agro-processing and Consumer Goods. The capital, Nairobi, is becoming an innovation hub for Pharmaceuticals and Plastics. Leading companies include Bidco Africa, Brookside Dairy, Devki Group, and Kenafric Industries, with reach across East and Central Africa.
6. Algeria
Algeria’s manufacturing landscape spans Cement, Automotives, Steel, and Electronics. Public-private partnerships and infrastructure have helped scale local industry. Major players include Groupe Cevital, Lafarge Algeria, Hyundai Algeria, and SNVI.
7. Ethiopia
With industrial parks and cost-effective labor, Ethiopia has become attractive for export-led manufacturing, especially in garments and textiles. Key sectors include Textiles, Leather, Cement, and Food Processing. Top firms include Ayka Addis, East Africa Bottling (Coca-Cola), and Derba Cement.
8. Ghana
Ghana’s manufacturing growth is fueled by agro-industrial value chains and policy initiatives like One District One Factory. The country boasts strong performance in Cocoa Processing, Cement, and Pharmaceuticals. Notable firms include Nestlé Ghana, Fan Milk, Kasapreko, and WAPCo Ghana.
9. Tunisia
Tunisia plays a key role in supplying Electronics and Automotive components to Europe. Its modernization of textiles and pharma production keeps it competitive. Key sectors include Electronics, Auto Parts, Textiles, and Pharmaceuticals, led by firms such as STIP, Coficab, Poulina Group, and Socotal.
10. Zambia
Zambia’s steady industrial rise is anchored in Agriculture, Cement, and FMCG. Companies like Zambeef Products, Trade Kings, and Lafarge Zambia dominate Agro-processing, Construction Materials, and Consumer Goods, with supportive government policies aiding growth.
